Drafty Windows in Toronto: The Surprising Cost Hitting Your Energy Bills Every Year

October 2, 2025 By Toronto Doors & Windows Company

Toronto’s energy costs are steadily rising, and many homeowners are unaware of how much money is lost due to deteriorating windows. Little leaks around a frame may not seem like much, but when warm air departs and cold air creeps in, the constant loss makes furnaces and air conditioners work harder. Utility bills rapidly reflect the outcome.

According to a number of Canadian studies, inefficient windows can cost homes anything from a few hundred to well over a thousand dollars a year. These figures vary depending on the size of the property, the kind of heating system, and the age of the house, but the trend is always the same: drafts are expensive.

Protecting the home budget is not the only benefit of addressing the problem. It also implies longer-lasting equipment, less strain on HVAC systems, and improved indoor comfort. Making better decisions begins with knowing why windows break and how regional climate factors contribute to the issue.

Why Drafty Windows Are a Bigger Problem in Toronto

Toronto’s weather puts unusual pressure on residential windows. Winters often last five months or more with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Heating systems must work almost constantly during that time. Once summer arrives, humidity levels climb sharply, and air conditioning use spikes. Few regions in Canada see such an extreme swing between seasons in such a short span.

Frames repeatedly expand and contract because of these quick changes between cold and heat. Vinyl responds to temperature changes, aluminum shrinks rapidly in cold weather, and wood tends to swell when wet. That frequent movement degrades caulking, pulls weatherstripping out of place, and loosens joints over a number of years. A tiny fracture that begins along the sash ultimately develops into a significant draft.

The age of construction adds another challenge. Much of Toronto’s housing stock predates Canada’s current energy-efficiency standards. Single-pane windows, aluminum frames without thermal breaks, and older double-pane designs are still common in houses built before the 1990s. These models lack modern insulating gas fills, low-E coatings, and advanced frame technologies. Even homes from the early 2000s may no longer meet present expectations for efficiency, meaning wasted energy remains widespread.

In a city where heating and cooling costs already run high, outdated windows magnify those expenses considerably. For many property owners, the issue isn’t just comfort; it’s measurable financial loss that compounds with each season.

The Science Behind Drafts and Energy Loss

Air leaks develop in predictable places: around sash joints, along deteriorating seals, or where caulking has broken away from the frame. Once air begins slipping through, interior comfort suffers immediately. Cold drafts can be felt near seating areas in winter, while in summer, cooled air seeps outdoors and forces systems to cycle endlessly.

The problem stems from how heat transfer works. Conduction occurs when warm indoor air pushes against cold outdoor glass surfaces, allowing energy to pass through the material. Convection, on the other hand, involves actual air movement,currents passing through cracks and carrying heat along with them. Radiation also plays a minor role, with sunlight heating certain surfaces, though leaks typically stem from conduction and convection.

Even modest air leakage has a magnified impact. A furnace might cycle dozens of times in a single day during January, burning more fuel than necessary because drafts undo its work. Air conditioners see a similar strain during late July heatwaves, when humid air slips inside and raises indoor temperatures faster than equipment can manage. That constant overwork not only increases utility bills but also shortens the lifespan of HVAC systems, leading to repair bills far sooner than expected.

Government-backed energy audits across Ontario consistently identify windows and doors as one of the top contributors to household energy loss. ENERGY STAR reports note that upgrading from older models to modern energy-efficient replacements can reduce heating and cooling expenses by significant percentages, depending on the home. For Toronto households, that translates into hundreds of dollars saved each year, plus improved comfort that no temporary weatherstripping fix can provide.

The Real Financial Impact

Utility bills in Toronto already run high during the winter months when furnaces push out heat day and night. A detached home can easily see heating costs climb past two hundred dollars per month during January and February. Once July humidity rolls in, cooling costs stack on as air conditioners run nearly nonstop.

Now consider what happens when windows leak. Studies suggest that a single poorly sealed unit can raise monthly heating or cooling expenses by five to ten percent. That means a household with several drafty frames could be paying hundreds more each season than necessary.

Inaction creates long-term losses. Over five years, the accumulated waste from drafty windows might exceed the cost of a full replacement project. Modern vinyl or fiberglass models, while requiring an upfront investment, start paying themselves back immediately through lower energy bills.

Hidden costs compound the issue. Furnaces forced to cycle constantly wear down faster, leading to premature breakdowns or expensive maintenance calls. Air conditioners exposed to higher humidity work harder, shortening their lifespan. What begins as a few drafts ends up as a chain reaction of wasted money, equipment stress, and unnecessary repairs.

Beyond Money – Comfort and Health Effects

While financial impact draws attention first, daily comfort takes a noticeable hit. Drafts create cold spots in winter, leaving living rooms unevenly heated. Families often cluster near space heaters or avoid certain rooms altogether. Summer brings the reverse problem, uneven cooling leaves bedrooms stuffy even with the AC running.

Moisture also becomes a concern. Drafty frames allow humid air inside, creating condensation along the glass or trim. Over time, damp conditions can fuel mold growth, especially in corners or behind curtains where circulation remains low. Mold doesn’t just damage building materials; it can also trigger allergies and respiratory irritation.

Air quality shifts as well. Pollutants, dust, and pollen sneak through gaps more easily when seals fail. That means more allergens floating indoors and greater discomfort for anyone sensitive to poor air. Health, comfort, and peace of mind all suffer when windows no longer do their job.

Signs Your Windows Are Costing You Money

Several warning signs reveal when windows have become liabilities rather than assets. Cold air creeping in near frames or along the sill during winter evenings is a clear indicator. Touching the interior glass and feeling a noticeable chill suggests insulation has weakened.

Condensation between panes signals a failed seal. Once insulating gas escapes, glass loses its efficiency, leaving fogged windows that stay damp.

Bills rising without lifestyle changes also point toward energy loss. If heating or cooling use hasn’t changed but monthly costs keep climbing, drafts are often to blame.

Practical signs appear too. Windows that stick when opening, frames that no longer close tightly, or visible cracks in weatherstripping all highlight the need for action.

Solutions Toronto Homeowners Should Consider

Homeowners with draft problems have a number of choices. Installing a retrofit entails changing the outdated sashes while preserving the original frames. Although it functions best when the existing frames are in good shape, it is less disruptive and frequently less expensive. In contrast, full-frame replacement involves removing the complete unit, including the sash, trim, and frame, enabling the installation of contemporary, energy-efficient models from the ground up. It guarantees optimal performance and durability despite being more comprehensive.

These days, energy-efficient alternatives go far beyond double-pane windows. Significant gains in insulation are offered by low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, triple glass, and argon or krypton gas fills. Compared to aluminum, fiberglass, and contemporary vinyl frames, they are much more insulating and resistant to warping.

Weatherstripping or caulking can reduce small leaks for temporary relief. However, these repairs are rarely permanent and cannot replace the comfort or savings that come with new windows.

Homeowners in Ontario can also be eligible for government energy incentive programs or rebates. Numerous programs seek to promote improvements that reduce carbon emissions and family costs. By using these incentives, you can partially defray the cost of installation, making window replacement an even more prudent financial decision.

Why Work With a Local Toronto Company

Not every installation crew is aware of the climatic requirements of Toronto, and not every window performs the same. Windows manufactured in Canada are built to withstand harsh winters, muggy summers, and the kind of abrupt seasonal changes that put a strain on less durable materials. Compared to imports not designed for tough conditions, products made especially for this area last longer and provide superior home protection.

However, performance is not guaranteed by materials alone. Installation is equally important. If gaps remain around the trim or if frames are not securely sealed, even the best-rated window loses efficiency. In order to ensure that every replacement offers complete value, skilled local technicians have the expertise required to manage both newer construction and older Toronto homes and condominiums.

Warranty support adds peace of mind. A reliable company provides both manufacturer coverage and installation guarantees. That combination protects against product defects as well as workmanship issues. Homeowners avoid unexpected costs because accountability remains clear.

Toronto Doors & Windows has built its reputation on these principles. With over fifteen years in the industry, the company offers honest pricing without hidden fees, detailed free estimates, and straightforward service from start to finish. Local knowledge, Canadian-made products, and professional installation make them a strong choice for anyone looking to reduce energy loss and improve home comfort.

Conclusion

Most homeowners are unaware of how much drafty windows cost. Inadequately sealed or antiquated frames are the cause of rising power bills, cold spots in the winter, excessive humidity in the summer, and even health issues. If ignored, these problems cause discomfort, additional maintenance headaches, and silent financial drains.

It is better to think of replacing outdated units as an investment than a cost. Modern windows offer year-round comfort, increase HVAC lifespan, and instantly reduce expenditures. Benefits include quieter interiors, better air, and increased market value for Toronto homes, in addition to financial savings.

Now is the moment to take action if your home has observed dampness, drafts, or consistently rising energy expenses. Toronto Doors & Windows helps homeowners find the best solution without putting them under pressure by providing free in-home consultations and online quotations. Get in touch with us right now to find out how much you may save by switching to energy-efficient windows built in Canada and tailored to the climate of Toronto.

Window Cleaning Tips and Tricks for The Toronto Homeowner

December 2, 2019 By Toronto Doors & Windows Company

Your windows are a significant part of your home’s external appeal. Beautiful windows catch the eyes of passers-by. Clean windows also let a lot of good light into your home and can save you money by using internal lighting less often. But window cleaning can be a total chore, doing it improperly can leave streaks, or can damage the frame. At the worst your window might get scratched from improper cleaning. Toronto Door and Windows is here with a few window cleaning tips to help you keep your windows looking pristine and presentable.

Cleaning Solutions for Window Cleaning

First thing you’ll need to get when you’re cleaning windows is what kind of cleaner you’ll be using. Here’s a few window cleaning tips regarding the type of cleaning solution you should choose.

Store Bought Cleaning Solutions

The most important thing to look for in a cleaning solution is to make sure that it’s non-streak. Some cleaning solutions can leave streaks and residue when they dry, making your entire exercise of window cleaning pointless. Usually, the cleaning solutions that do leave streaks are not actually meant for cleaning glass. Look out for cleaners that are specifically formulated to clean glass to avoid this mistake.

However, some dishwashing detergents can be helpful with the tougher spots on your windows. Not only will it provide a better surface for scrubbing away the dirt caked up on your window, they’re usually already streak free as well.

Homemade Cleaning Solutions

If you’re looking to save a bit of money or would rather go with a more natural approach, there are a number of cleaning solutions that you can make at home for yourself. A few of the typical cleaning solutions that you can make readily are:

Vinegar and lemon juice should be pretty common in a homeowner’s cupboard. It has a ton of uses for cleaning: tiles, floors, kitchen countertops, ceramic, and yes, even glass. The mild acidity of these liquids helps break down dust buildup on your windows.

Rubbing alcohol isn’t just for cuts, its antibacterial properties will keep your windows cleaner for longer as well. Meanwhile, you can buy ammonia, which is found in most commercially available cleaners in certain stores as a cleaning solvent for cheaper than the cleaners you can buy regularly. Just make sure that you dilute it properly: at one tablespoon per gallon of water.

Usually you would create a mixture from just some of these liquids to create your homemade solution. A typical suggestion is ¼ cup of vinegar, 2 cups of water, and a bit of liquid soap.

Equipment

After deciding on what you’ll be cleaning with, here are a few window cleaning tips on the essential equipment you need to do all your cleaning:

Vacuum

Besides just the glass of your window, you need to keep your window sill and any rails clean and free of dust and debris as well. Use a vacuum with a wand attachment to clear up all the dirt. This is not only to keep your window clean, but also to make sure that the mechanisms of your window don’t get clogged with dust and debris, damaging how you open and close the window.

Squeegees and Sponges

These are your best friends for cleaning windows, professionals have been using it for years and they’re readily available to you for pretty cheap at any hardware store. Use the sponge to apply your cleaning solution and the squeegee to make sure that there aren’t any streaks.

Scraper

Window scrapers are the most important tool you can have to deal with the peskier parts of your window. Use it to scrape off any residue on your window that a typical wipe down won’t remove like dried tape adhesive or paint.

Paper Towels, Old T-Shirts and Newspapers

These options are there for people who don’t want to buy equipment exclusively for just window cleaning. All of these materials are cheap and generally lint free. Old newspapers and paper towels are disposable, while you can use find a use of old t-shirts you can’t donate.

Lint Roller

While a surprising addition to your toolkit, a lint roller is great for picking up dust and debris that stick to your window or frame, despite all your efforts, sometimes there’s always just a little bit of dust left over when you finish cleaning, usually because dust and debris stick to the window while it dries.

When and how should you do your Window Cleaning?

Now that you have your equipment and cleaning solution, here are a few general window cleaning tips to help you when you’re finally starting the work:

1. Do it on an overcast day

While you might think that a sunny day is the perfect time to do your window cleaning, it’s better to do it on an overcast day instead. The sun can dry your cleaning solution too quickly, leading to marks and residue to build up. On a cooler, overcast day, you’ll have the proper time to wash and clean the windows, plus, you won’t need to be standing under the hot sun for hours.

2. Different Directions inside and outside

When you’re wiping or squeegee-ing down your windows, wipe them one side horizontally, and one side vertically. That way, if there are any smudges or streaks, you’ll be able to identify immediately which side has it.

3. Work from the top down when cleaning your windows

Let gravity do most of the work, the cleaning solution your use will rip down the entire pane of glass, saving you some time spraying everything down, work the cloth or squeegee from top to bottom for the same reason.

4. Once or twice a year

It’s best you do a full cleaning on your windows maybe once or twice a year. The best times of these are usually right before and right after winter. Of course, in between it’s always good to get at least a little cleaning done on them, to make the large cleaning jobs less time-consuming.

5. Break it down

A typical house has a lot of windows to clean, so break the task down. You don’t have to do all the windows all at once, take some time whenever you’re free to clean one set of windows one week, then the next one another week.

Window cleanings are a perfect time to inspect your windows for any damage or deterioration. Broken windows can lead to higher energy costs for your home, and can invite unwanted drafts. When you spot windows in your home that need replacing, call Toronto Doors and Windows at 647-932-3667 for a free estimate for your repair or installation job.

Winter Tips for the Doors and Windows of Your Toronto Home

October 28, 2019 By Toronto Doors & Windows Company

Snow days conjure up images of cozy blankets, mugs of hot chocolates and a pretty white landscape to look out into. You’re definitely imagining curling up against a window reading a book. But imagine having to do that while shivering cold because a draft is letting frigid cold wind blow directly in your face. To protect you from such disappointments, it’s important to make sure that your doors and windows are in top shape to face the coming chill. Here are a few ways that the cold wind and heavy snow can affect your doors and windows as well as a few tips from Toronto Doors and Windows on preparing for the winter months that can not only keep your home comfortable but also help you save on a good bit of money.

Problems Your Doors and Windows May Face in the Toronto Winter

The cold Toronto winters will assault your home in all manner of different ways. For your doors and windows however, these are the things that the homeowner should take their time to look out for.

How Temperatures affects your Windows and Doors

Rapid temperature changes and moisture levels can deal a significant amount of damage to a lot of materials in your home. For materials like wood, which are usually what comprises the frames of Toronto homes, During the humid months, moisture can accumulate within the wood and cause it to expand. This is was normally causes sticky doors during the summer. In the cold winter days, however, the cold, dry air carries little moisture and can actually cause the wood to shrink and compress. Repeat this process for a number of years and it leads to the frame your windows and doors to warp. When this happens, it can invite a whole host of other problems.

The first, most significant problem this leads are drafts. Leaving gaps exposed to the elements invites the frigid cold air, the cold air coming in not only makes your home overall colder, but will also ratchet up heating bills because your thermostat will need to work overtime to keep your heaters on longer and maintain a comfortable living temperature. Installing weatherstripping around the edges of your doors and windows is a cost-effective must for homes in Toronto so that you can combat this however, weatherstripping is also affected by the cold in significant ways.

Dealing With Moisture During the Winter

Between the frame of the home and the window installed, there’s just a little bit of space that can let warm air from the inside of your home to the outside. In the winter, this moisture will freeze in place. This makes it harder for you to open your windows and doors because your door is frozen tight to the frame. Forcing your window open like this will lead to the vinyl weatherstripping sealing your door frame to crack, requiring replacement. But keeping it shut will invite ice to form even further. This problem can also be make warped frames worse, as ice expands, pushing the window and frame further apart bit by bit.

The freezing cold temperature can also cause latches and handles to fail. This can be for any number of reasons. First of which is that moisture freezes over and causes the mechanisms to jam. Another reason is that cold temperatures can cause metals to contract, which can lead to stiffer operation of those latches if they’re old or misaligned. Normally a bit of lubrication is enough to fix this issue for the winter, but sometimes replacement latches are needed.

For double or triple paned windows, moisture can be an issue. While normally, misty windows means that your home is sufficiently heated so that the warm air in your home condenses on the glass which was made cold by the outside winter temperatures. But moisture accumulation between the panes on window glass is a clear sign of a leak in your window installation. When you notice this, it’s very important that you speak to a door and window service company and have them take a look for necessary repairs or replacements.

Preparing Your Doors and Windows for the Toronto Winter

Now that you know about a few things that could happen to your windows and doors during the cold Toronto winters, you can prepare your home for the winter months. The following are things you can do during the fall:

Inspect your Doors and Windows

Knowing that these problems can exist in your doors and windows, it’s important that you inspect them during the fall so you can call on your local Toronto window and door service to come and perform repairs and replacements for you. A classic way to check for drafts in your home caused by enlarged gaps between the frame and windows is by taking a candle on a windy day and placing it by the windowsill. If you notice the flame moving around that means there’s a draft there and it’s probably time to fix it.

But not just your windows, make sure you take the time to inspect the hinges of your doors and see if they need lubrication. The cold temperature can cause these to stiffen up. Inspecting the railings for damage and debris should also be done, especially in the external rails so that you have ample time to replace parts like rusted or stiffening rollers.

Replace Weatherstripping

During your inspection, take note of any damaged weatherstripping. Temperature and moisture changes can lead to weatherstripping becoming dry and brittle. It’s better to replace them during the fall when the weather is still good for doing these fixes rather than having to clear out snow and ice to replace them during the winter when they inevitably break.

Clean Your Windows and Doors

This should be something that you do fairly often throughout the year but this is perhaps more important as you prepare for the winter months. Take a vacuum and make sure to collect all the dust and debris that accumulated over the months of use. Leaving dust and debris in and around your doors and windows can lead to it getting stuck between the weatherstripping and the window and can lead to drafts. Not just that, when snow falls, it can pack down all that dust and debris into the railing and can lead to light discoloration that will be difficult to clean off in the future.

As for the glass of your windows itself, even during the winter, it’s a good idea to keep them clean. Make sure that the cloths you use to clean your doors and windows are lint-free as these will prevent smudges when you’re wiping away your washing solution. Lint-free cloths also don’t impart static onto the glass that can attract dust. Keeping your windows clean will also help let light in during the bright white winter days, helping you cut down on energy costs.

Consider Installing a Storm Door

A storm door is an external, secondary door that can be installed over your current front door. There are a number of advantages to installing one of these. In the winter, it can create a buffer area of air between the outside and your front door. This can keep your front door and thus the interior of your home a bit less cold, saving you money on heating. Furthermore, a storm door can also protect your front door from snow and sleet, which can cause significant damage to the lacquering, paintwork and detailing common for most front doors. It’s a relatively inexpensive way of keeping your front door looking pristine for as long as possible.

Thicker Curtains and Drapes

Another good way of saving up on heating bills is to install some thicker curtains and drapery for the winter months. Thicker fabrics provide insulation, preventing heat loss and can save you a good amount on heating bills. They can also provide some much needed shade in case the winter days become too bright. They also add a nice cozy look to your home, something that can accentuate the look of your rooms during the cold months.

You don’t have to keep them up all year long either. Come spring time, you can take them down and stow them away for the next winter. Just make sure that your curtain rods are strong enough to support the heavier fabrics you’ll be using for winter.

If you ever find an issue with your doors or windows that needs immediate addressing; or are looking to be in the market for a new installation, feel free to contact Toronto Doors and Windows at 647-932-3667 and request for a free estimate. Our expert team will make sure your home will be in top shape and ready for the coming winter months!

8 Questions to Ask When Shopping for Vinyl Windows

July 8, 2016 By Toronto Doors & Windows Company

Replacement windows are a big investment so you need to be sure that the company who supplies and installs them knows exactly what they are doing and that you choose the right windows for your property. Below are 8 questions you can ask the companies you approach all about vinyl windows, to help ensure that you make the right choices. There are quite a few reputable suppliers and installers that offer their services across the Greater Toronto Area so there is no need to settle for second best.

Vinyl Windows: 8 Questions You Should Be Asking

Whenever you start talking to a local company about replacement windows for your property, be sure to ask them the following questions.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business in the GTA? – A company that has been serving homeowners in the area for many years will be much better equipped to deal with any installation issues that may arise and will be able to give you accurate advice when it comes to recommending the best type of windows for properties in this part of the world. They will know which styles sell well, which type of vinyl windows stand up to the local weather conditions the best, and what other people with similar properties to yours have chosen to have installed.

2. How Long Will It Take to Install My New Windows? – Given that you will probably want to vacate the property while the work is being carried out, or at least arrange to sleep and have your meals elsewhere, it is important to know how long it will take.

3. What is the Energy Rating of the Glass in Your Windows? – The energy rating of the glass in the vinyl windows you buy will determine how much you could save on utility bills in the long term.

4. What Kind of Guarantees for Materials and Labour Do You Offer? – Given the amount of money you will be spending, you should make sure that the company you give your business to offers a comprehensive warranty for both their windows and workmanship.

5. Are You Insured? – Comprehensive liability insurance will cover any accidental damage or injuries that may occur during the installation process and is therefore essential.

6. Do You Have a Showroom? – The best way for you to get a feel for how different styles of vinyl windows will look in your home is to see them in a showroom setting. Catalogs are useful but it is much easier to judge what they really look like when you see windows installed in a showroom environment.

7. Are Your Quotations All-Inclusive? – If you are going to compare quotations from several different companies in Toronto, you need to know that each one includes all necessary installation work and materials. If there are any hidden extras, these could invalidate your comparisons.

8. Do You Have Your Own Installation Team? – Companies with their own in-house installers will be able to guarantee a higher level of service than those who leave the work to subcontractors.

To speak to a company that has helped numerous local homeowners upgrade their properties with high quality vinyl windows, call Toronto Doors and Windows now. We provide free initial consultations and estimates for customers in all parts of the GTA, and would be delighted to help you improve your home in the near future.

Long-Term Benefits of Paying A Little Extra For Your Window Installation

November 5, 2014 By Toronto Doors & Windows Company

Any homeowner knows that house maintenance isn’t cheap. From new kitchen appliances to repairing the furnace, there are some things that just have to be done, despite the fact that you’d much rather be spending that hard earned money on a vacation to the beach.

Window replacement, for example, is one of these things. You know that in order to keep your home energy efficient as well as appealing to the eye, your windows have to be replaced. You also know that it’s going to cost a fair bit of money to do so, which is why so many people try to cut deals when it comes to window installation. Paying cash, or looking for the cheapest contractors around sounds like a great way to save a few bucks, but in the end it could end up costing you more money. Here’s why:

Why Price Shouldn’t Be the Only Factor in Choosing Window Installation Contractors

1. Licensing

Most of the time, when you find a contractor that is able to charge you far less than everyone else, it’s because they don’t have the proper licensing (and thus don’t have to pay monthly or yearly licensing fees). Knowing that your contractors are fully licensed, means knowing that they have at least the necessary level of competence to complete the job. As well, licensing means that you can legally dispute any discrepancies regarding contract or quality of work.

2. Insurance

Low-end (cheap) contractors don’t always have adequate insurance. If you’re having all your windows replaced, that’s a going to be a big bill, and small-time contractors might not have the adequate insurance to cover any mishaps, repairs or damages caused by improper window installation.

3. Paper Trails

You may be tempted to pay a contractor in cash in order to get a discount, but if anything happens down the road, you won’t have the proper receipts you need to dispute the issues. Whether window and door installation, or even a new roof, the same rule applies – sign legal contracts and leave as much of a paper trail as possible so that should any problems arise in the future you have the paperwork to back up your claims.

4. Longevity/Guarantees

Possibly the most important thing to look for when hiring a company to do your window installation is that they fully guarantee not only their product – but their installation too. Window installation includes making sure the window is a perfect fit and then sealing it properly to maintain energy efficiency within your home. New windows are a big investment, and a good company will guarantee their work so that that you’re not the one paying for repairs if something goes wrong.

5. Efficiency

Paying a bit extra for window installation experts usually means you’ll get a larger team – and one that knows how to work quickly and efficiently. Let’s be honest, installing new windows can be a nuisance to the homeowner if the process becomes long and drawn out. An experienced team will have the entire job done as quick as humanly possible, giving you your home back much faster.

At Toronto Doors and Windows, we often see people spending top dollar for quality windows, only to skimp when it comes to hiring the installers. But good windows are only as good as their installation. So what happens when the seals come apart and the “lowest price contractors” won’t fix it? They call us of course! And it’s not that we don’t want the business, but it’s better to get it done right the first time. And that’s why we’ve provided you with a brief checklist for hiring your next window installation contractor:

Quality Window Installation Checklist

1. Do They Have a Storefront?

Don’t rely on telemarketers and newspaper ads to choose the best installers, and stay clear of the guys who work out of the back of their own rundown pick-up trucks and are willing to be paid in cash and beer. Instead, look for a reputable company with a proper store front that you can visit, with a useful, high-quality website. Choose a company that is completely transparent about what they can and cannot offer you.

2. Can They Provide References?

Ask for a few references from previous clients, but also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if they’ve had any complaints against them. If they have any unresolved issues, or a long list of complaints, steer clear!

3. Do They Have Experience?

Hiring a professional window installation team doesn’t need to break the bank, but remember that you usually get what you pay for. Hiring a quality team with years of experience means they can predict potential problems and fix them before they become an issue. Most importantly, a good quality team will ensure you get quality, long-lasting results.

Call us today for professional window installation in Toronto

How Vinyl Windows Measure Up to the Competition?

October 30, 2014 By Toronto Doors & Windows Company

The most common materials used for windows these days include: wood, aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass.

Of all the materials, vinyl windows are the most commonly installed in newer homes, while fiberglass windows are still relatively new on the market.
Before we break down each material’s good and bad qualities, let’s take a look at the materials in an easy-to-understand overview:

	Wood	Vinyl	Fiberglass	Aluminum
No cracking		?	?	?
No peeling		?	?	?
No bending or warping		?	?	?
Large variety of shapes and designs	?	?	?
No sticking caused by expansion or contraction		?	?
High energy efficiency	?	?	?

As you can see, vinyl and fiberglass have many great qualities that wood and aluminum are lacking. But to get a more in-depth understanding of each material we will break down the various issues separately below:

Vinyl Windows vs. Wood, Fiberglass and Aluminum Windows

Durability/Maintenance

When talking about windows, durability usually boils down to how long the windows will last without any need for repairs or window replacement. In Canada, and other places where temperatures change drastically throughout the year, this can have varied effects on the different materials as follows:

Wood windows expand and contract quite quickly in humid, hot or cold weather. After only a couple of years, the wood can permanently warp, leaving you with windows that are difficult to open and close, and you may find small (or large) gaps between the window and the frame.
Aluminum windows can behave in a similar fashion. A great conductor of temperatures, aluminum will also expand and contract quite quickly, making the windows difficult to open, which, again, often creates gaps.
Vinyl windows are resistant to the contracting and expanding seen in wood and aluminum windows. They will maintain their shape and be easy to open and close for many years to come.
Fiberglass windows are also very sturdy and will stand up well against varied temperatures, similar to vinyl windows.

On top of this, you must also think about how the windows will look in say, 5 to 10 years. Wooden windows will never look better than they do on the day that they are stained and installed. They will also need regular upkeep to retain their appearance and functionality. Aluminum windows can rust and warp. Vinyl windows, however, will look just as good 10 years later as they did when they were first installed.

Insulation

Out of all the materials mentioned above, aluminum will provide the least amount of insulation. In fact, you can feel the outdoor temperatures permeating through the aluminum if you place your hand against the metal frame. Wood is a fairly good insulator, but because it is prone to bending and warping, it’s not long before you’ll feel a cool (or warm) draft coming from a wood window, due to gaps between the frame and window as mentioned above. Vinyl windows are made mostly from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and they create an incredible airtight seal that lasts for years on end as it does not expand like the other noted materials. Gaps and drafts are very rare in vinyl windows, similar to those made of fiberglass.

Energy Efficiency

Basically, insulation directly relates to energy efficiency (and your monthly energy bills). If you’ve got windows that are letting in a draft of cold air, your heating system will have to work extra hard to warm the house. Windows that can ensure a tight seal are your best bet for saving money in the long run by keeping the heat (or cold as would be the case in the summer) securely inside the home. As well, there are some municipalities that offer government incentives when you choose energy efficient windows such as vinyl.

Cost

Cost is always an important fact when thinking about window installation, and that’s why vinyl windows are the number one choice for most homeowners. It can be broken down like this:

Window Materials from Most to Least Expensive

1. Fiberglass
2. Wood
3. Vinyl/Aluminum

Window Materials from Most to Least Durable (meaning they last the longest with the least amount of regular maintenance)

1. Fiberglass
2. Vinyl
3. Aluminum
4. Wood

As you can see, vinyl sits on the list with high durability and very little maintenance at an affordable cost. Wood can cost two to three times that amount, but requires a lot of regular upkeep. Fiberglass sits at the top of both lists, but the cost for fiberglass is a lot higher than any other material, making it a more common choice for commercial or industrial buildings.

At Toronto Doors and Windows, we can help you choose the perfect all weather windows and doors that complement your lifestyle while staying within your budget.

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